What Is the Connection Between Your Oral and Overall Health?
Maintaining your oral health goes beyond a beautiful smile. It can significantly impact your overall health. At Santa Teresa Dental, we believe in the power of prevention to keep dental disease at bay. We proudly offer comprehensive services tailored to your unique needs to help you maintain a healthy smile and enhance your overall well-being. You can always count on Dr. Huang and his dedicated team for care and service that exceed your expectations.
Gum Disease and Your Overall Health
Did you know that many early signs of diseases are first detected in the mouth? For example, changes in the gum tissues, like redness, swelling, or bleeding, may indicate periodontal disease but can also point to other systemic concerns like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Persistent dry mouth, a condition known as xerostomia, can also be a symptom of an autoimmune disorder like Sjögren’s syndrome.
What Are the Symptoms of Periodontal Disease?
The most common signs of gum disease include the following:
- Red, tender, or puffy gums that tend to bleed, especially when you brush or floss
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis) or a bad taste in the mouth
- Pain when chewing or placing pressure on your teeth
- Gum recession that leaves your teeth looking longer
- Tooth sensitivity resulting from the receding gums exposing the tooth roots
- Loose teeth or changes in how the teeth fit together
How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?
At Santa Teresa Dental, we offer non-surgical treatment options for early to moderate periodontal disease to keep it from progressing. Here is a look at what you can expect:
- Gingivitis: Gingivitis treatment usually involves two appointments. We typically start by using laser therapy to eliminate the inflammation and infection and provide you with detailed at-home care instructions. A follow-up visit in 4-6 weeks involves an evaluation of your gum health to determine whether you require further treatment.
- Early and Moderate Periodontitis: Early and moderate periodontitis typically require three sessions. The first two visits include debridement and laser therapy, and the third session involves an assessment of your at-home oral hygiene practices and determining whether you require further treatment. We may recommend localized antimicrobial treatment, if needed, to promote healing.
- Advanced Periodontitis: This advanced stage of periodontal disease is highly destructive and often requires a referral to a periodontist. Your specialist may recommend surgical intervention to prevent the devastating impacts of periodontitis on your oral and overall health. We collaborate with your periodontist and provide follow-up care to ensure the best possible outcome for your smile.
- After Treatment: Following treatment, we recommend periodontal maintenance appointments every 3-4 months. During your visits, we will clean your teeth thoroughly, evaluate your gum health, and intervene, if needed, to address any new needs. Our goal is to keep your gums as healthy as possible for as long as possible.
Identifying the Early Signs of Systemic Health Concerns
Did you know that many early signs of diseases are first detected in the mouth? For example, changes in the gum tissues like redness, swelling, or bleeding may indicate periodontal disease but can also point to other systemic concerns like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Persistent dry mouth, a condition known as xerostomia, can also be a symptom of an autoimmune disorder like Sjögren’s syndrome.
Signs of systemic problems may include lesions, ulcers, or unusual discoloration. For example, thrush may point to a weakened immune system, as is often seen in patients with immunodeficiency disorders. Certain oral lesions can also be associated with nutritional deficiencies, autoimmune diseases like lupus, and even certain types of cancer. At Santa Teresa Dental, we pay close attention to tell-tale signs of systemic conditions and refer you to your healthcare provider for further evaluation, if needed, to help you get your health back on track.
Preventive Care for Long-Term Oral Health
The following tips can help safeguard your oral health and overall well-being:
- Brush your teeth at least every morning and before you go to bed with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss gently every day to remove plaque and food debris in those hard-to-brush areas between your teeth.
- Visit Santa Teresa Dental for your regular dental exams and cleanings.
- Limit sugary treats and maintain a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and lean proteins.
Comprehensive Dental Services Near Me in Morgan Hill, CA
At Santa Teresa Dental, we emphasize the importance of prevention to boost your oral and overall health. Dr. Huang and his patient-centered team are happy to offer comprehensive preventive care and periodontal disease treatment tailored to your unique needs. We are all about safeguarding your oral health and long-term well-being. Call us at 408-782-6568 to schedule an appointment, or book one online today!